History

The History Department is dynamic and passionate about the delivery of our subject. Our GCSE results are steadily improving and the subject is a popular one. We build upon the core skills of knowledge, source analysis, interpretation, inference and evaluation which are intrinsic at GCSE level. Teaching and Learning is at the heart of our Department and we are recognised for the effectiveness of our level of questioning, pace and differentiation across both Key Stages. We are continuing to embed and develop enrichment opportunities for our students and are constantly seeking to improve this fundamental aspect of the subject. We undertake local study trips to explore our local heritage and have recently had a Holocaust Survivor speak to our students. We are currently investigating several overseas trips that we would like to offer to KS4 students.

Key Stage 3

Students enjoy the excitement of studying Medieval Britain from the 11th Century onwards. The Tudors and Stuarts are followed by the revolutions in Industry, Agriculture and Transport. A study of the Black Peoples’ of the Americans is then followed by the emotive investigation into both World War one and World War Two ending with Hitler’s rise to power.

Key Stage 4

Students study OCR History B: Academy History Project.

We fundamentally believe that our students need to be exposed to a broad range of history from different contexts. This GCSE allows our students to explore local, British and International History whilst developing the core skills of knowledge and source analysis continuously. The course reflects the rigour and academic nature of the subject

Thematic Study:

Crime and Punishment c.1250 to present (Knowledge focus)

British Depth Study:

The Elizabethans 1580-1087 (Greater Source focus)

The Study of the Historic Environment:

Our local History-The development of the Pottery Industry

The Period Study:

The Making of America 1789-1900 (Knowledge focus)

The non-British Depth Study:

Living under Nazi Rule 1933-1945 (Greater Source Focus)

Assessment. Each component represents 20% of the entire GCSE ensuring the two main skills regarding demonstration of knowledge and analysis of evidence are equally assessed.